At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, drive performance insights, and partner with leaders across multiple leisure sites.
- Company: Purpose-driven social enterprise focused on enhancing community engagement through leisure facilities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, access to facilities, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing organisation while shaping financial strategies and supporting communities.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in commercial finance and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
A commercially focused Head of Finance opportunity within a growing multi-site leisure organisation where finance plays a key role in driving operational performance and supporting business decisions. Working closely with the CFO, you'll combine financial control, FP&A and hands-on business partnering to help shape performance across a portfolio of sites.
My client is a purpose-driven social enterprise operating a growing portfolio of golf and leisure facilities across the UK, with the office based in North West Kent. The organisation reinvests profits back into its venues and communities, creating high-quality, accessible environments that increase participation in the sport whilst delivering a sustainable commercial model. Following a period of growth, the organisation is seeking a commercially minded Head of Finance to strengthen financial leadership, improve performance visibility across sites and support operational decision-making.
Reporting directly to the CFO, this position will lead the core finance function whilst acting as a trusted business partner to operational leadership teams across the business. Responsibilities will include:
- Leading the monthly management accounts and financial reporting process
- Owning budgeting, forecasting and reforecasting activities across multiple sites
- Providing commercial insight and actionable recommendations to support performance improvement
- Partnering with General Managers and operational leaders to review financial performance and drive accountability
- Developing meaningful KPI reporting, dashboards and performance analysis
- Delivering cash flow forecasts, scenario modelling and business cases
- Supporting pricing reviews, investment appraisals and capital expenditure decisions
- Leading year-end audit processes and statutory reporting requirements
- Strengthening financial controls and improving reporting processes
- Coaching and developing members of the finance team
- Driving a culture of commercial awareness, accountability and continuous improvement
The successful candidate for this Head of Finance role will be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with a strong blend of commercial finance, business partnering and financial control experience. You will also demonstrate:
- Strong experience within commercial finance, business partnering or Head of Finance roles
- Proven ability to influence operational stakeholders and non-finance leaders
- Experience working within a multi-site environment such as leisure, hospitality, retail, healthcare, consumer services or similar
- Strong budgeting, forecasting and performance analysis capability
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to translate financial information into practical commercial actions
- A hands-on approach and willingness to operate within a growing and evolving organisation
- Experience improving processes, reporting and finance systems
Salary up to £75,000. Hybrid working environment (4 dpw in the office or at a site). Significant exposure to CFO and senior leadership team. Genuine opportunity to influence business performance. Purpose-led organisation with strong values and culture. Complimentary access to facilities.
Commercial Head of Finance / Finance Business Partner employer: Michael Page Finance
This thriving technology company in Yorkshire is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive culture that prioritises employee development and innovation. With opportunities for professional growth and the potential for the Interim Financial Accountant role to transition into a permanent position, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while enjoying the benefits of remote working.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Head of Finance / Finance Business Partner
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Michael Page Finance. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Head of Finance / Finance Business Partner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Michael Page Finance.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Michael Page Finance's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page Finance
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Michael Page Finance.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Michael Page Finance will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Michael Page Finance employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
